“Debra. Nice to meet you. Tell me more about the certification process,” Debra said, tilting her head to one side.

“There are master levels I could take, but they’re mainly for people who want a long-term career in cycling. My mom suggested I get certified to make extra money while trying to break into journalism.”

Finn smiled. “I love that it was your mom’s idea.”

I recalled my first-ever class. I was in high school and Mom brought me to Equinox as her guest. The instructor, Darryl, worked us so hard I thought I would die. I was hooked from then on. “She’s the one who introduced me to spinning. She comes to my classes sometimes.”

“Did you say you’re a journalist?” Debra asked.

“I am! I’m actually writing a story on Pleasant Hollow,” I said proudly.

Her head drew back quickly, and her blue eyes widened. “This town? Why?”

“Good question,” I mumbled.

Finn snorted.

I poked him in the side. “Stop it.”

Debra beamed at us. “You guys are an adorable couple!”

“We’re not together!” Finn said loudly and forcefully.

Debra took a step back. “Oh, sorry. I just assumed.”

“Yes, we’re just friends,” I said through gritted teeth. What was his problem?

We stood in a triangle of silence.

“Brian!” Debra tugged at her son’s arm as he ran by. “What did I say about running inside?” She shook her head in frustration. “Kids. I’m sorry. Nice to meet you both!” She raced after her son, who I recognized as the little boy who’d run right into me earlier.

I laughed at the irony of her doing exactly what she told her son not to do and turned to Finn. My body tensed, remembering his outburst.

He looked properly chagrined. “I’m sorry for…” He lowered his gaze. “Before.”

My face went hot. “I heard you the first time. You’re not boyfriend material. Blah, blah, blah.” I placed my hands on my hips. “Don’t worry. I’m not going to boil bunnies on the stove. We had a fling—a four-night stand. It was hot, but we’re not in some romance novel. I get it.” I spotted Lorraine by the grandfather clock. “I need to remind Lorraine to save a room for me for tomorrow.” I rushed over to her, willing him not to follow me.